Relieving Pain Due to Braces

It’s no surprise that braces can cause some pain and discomfort. While this is common and expected, it still isn’t any fun. Dr. Cynthia Wong Orthodontics of Orland Park, IL wants to make sure all of our patients are as comfortable as possible. Takes some tips for relieving pain while wearing braces!

Braces can cause pain in a couple of different ways. The most obvious way is due to the wires being tightened. The pain is also thought to come from the changes in blood flow that are caused by the pressure. Another source of pain can come from the metal brackets and wires rubbing up against the soft tissues in the mouth. They can create sore spots and irritated areas.

To relieve pressure pain, pain relievers like Motrin or Advil work well. You can also use topical pain relievers like Orajel. Topical pain relievers work relatively quickly. You will also want to be sure that you are eating soft foods like yogurt or soup.

To relieve soft tissue pain caused by the metal, you can purchase dental wax to place over the metal parts that rub the most. However, as the mouth gets used to having braces, the soft tissues will become calloused so the rubbing is no longer a bother. For additional relief, you should use a soft-bristled toothbrush when brushing your teeth. This way you will not irritate the soft tissues as much.

New braces and tightened wires can take some getting used to. If you are experiencing problems with your braces, do not hesitate to give Dr. Cynthia Wong Orthodontics a call. Our Orland Park, IL office can be reached at (708) 444-8341 or through our website, www.drcynthiawong.com. 

Flossing after Braces

The moment has come for your braces to be removed and to have your teeth freed from wires. Though we hope you managed to maneuver floss through your braces, it’s time to remind you how to floss your teeth without them. Dental floss comes in many forms, but it won’t be effective unless you know how to use it properly. Dr. Cynthia Wong would like you to utilize these tips for effective cleaning to protect yourself from gum disease and tooth decay.

• Break off about 18 inches of floss and wind most of it around one of your middle fingers. Wind the remaining floss around the same finger of the opposite hand. This finger will take up the floss as it becomes dirty.


• Hold the floss tightly between your thumbs and forefingers.


• Guide the floss between your teeth using a gentle rubbing motion. Never snap the floss into the gums.


• When the floss reaches the gum line, curve it into a “C” shape against one tooth. Gently slide it into the space between the gum and the tooth.


• Hold the floss tightly against the tooth. Gently rub the side of the tooth, moving the floss away from the gum with up-and-down motions. Repeat this method for the rest of your teeth and don’t forget the back ones!

If you have questions regarding orthodontic aftercare, please give us a call. To learn more about the services we provide at our office, visit www.drcynthiawong.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Cynthia Wong in Orland Park, IL, call 708-444-8341.

Brushing after Braces

The time has come, after years of enduring orthodontic treatment, you can finally lick your teeth again without feeling an inch of metal. Though you may have grown accustomed to brushing your teeth with braces, do you remember how to brush them now that they are removed? Dr. Cynthia Wong would like to remind you to utilize these brushing tips the next time you practice proper oral hygiene.

• Place your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle against the gums.


• Move the brush back and forth gently in short (tooth-wide) strokes.


• Brush the outer tooth surfaces, the inner tooth surfaces, and the chewing surfaces of the teeth.


• Use the tip of the brush to clean the inside surfaces of the front teeth, using a gentle up-and-down stroke.


• Brush your tongue to remove bacteria and don’t forget to floss!

If you have questions regarding orthodontic aftercare, please give us a call. To learn more about the services we provide at our office, visit www.drcynthiawong.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Cynthia Wong in Orland Park, IL, call 708-444-8341.

Orthodontics and Your Gums

Anyone can suffer from sensitivity, but braces wearers can be especially susceptible to it. This is because braces are more difficult to clean around, and poor oral care can lead to an irritated or receding gum line. To help prevent sensitivity, brush thoroughly after every meal and floss at least once a day. If this doesn’t work, discuss your sensitivity issues with Dr. Cynthia Wong to develop a treatment plan that best suits your needs.

It’s normal to feel some pain in your mouth after receiving new braces or regular adjustments. After all, your teeth and jaw are hard at work creating a new smile. However, when it becomes almost impossible to practice proper oral hygiene, gingivitis, the result of plaque buildup on your teeth, can lead to gum inflammation causing your braces to react to this pain. It's always important to make great oral hygiene a priority. But when you have braces, doing so can cut down on problems and irritation – making it a more comfortable experience.

If your braces are causing you discomfort, please give us a call. To learn more about the services we provide, visit www.drcynthiawong.com for more information. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Cynthia Wong in Orland Park, IL, call 708-444-8341.